INTERVIEW | THE REAL SIMBA @THEREALSIMBAA TALKS MUSIC, FAMILY, AND POSITIVE VIBES
I had the pleasure, yet again, of chopping it up with young and successful artist The Real Simba. I first discovered Simba a couple of years back when his music caused a world wind across airwaves and stages throughout the states. Without hesitation, I linked up with Simba to release his distinctive story. Since then, his music has voyaged from state to state, and from country to country!
MJ: I know fans are fascinated to hear the back story of Simba. Tell us what life was like growing up as a child in Jamaica? Did it prepare you for your new life in Mount Vernon, NY?
Simba: I was born and raised in St. Catherine Jamaica and came to the states when I was 7 years old. In Jamaica I came from a one-bedroom house shared with me and about 9 cousins, brother, and mother. I grew up in the country side where people raised animals and grew plants as one of the main motives of survival. I spent time with my dad at his home in Central Village, perhaps one of the most dangerous places in Jamaica. That experience made me humble but it also made me a fight for the things I want most. It also matured me faster because I experience things normal kids didn’t see at my age. I came to Mount Vernon and the violence seemed nothing new to me because I saw it countless times in Jamaica.
MJ: The environment around you in Mount Vernon was and is horrific. You were exposed to the horrors and nightmares that no child should be. Rather than fall victim to that you chose an escape. Talk about your writing and how it ultimately became your savior.
Simba: Mount Vernon is hectic but I feel that if I grew up anywhere else it wouldn’t feel the same. I don’t think I’d appreciate many aspects of life that I do now. Growing up in Mount Vernon made me wise and how to carry myself. Mount Vernon hardens you, it makes you a fighter, and teaches you not to give up. At the end of the day I don’t want to die not having done something great. Living here helped me to set goals and also showed me the things that I don’t want to fall victim to. The main reason I work hard is so I don’t have to fall to the negative stigmas of my town. Ultimately my writing became the main reason for me to do so. It gave me something to dream for and gave me away to express myself. Music is my love and gives me meaning.
MJ: One of your very first records was a result of that escape, “Susie’s Story”. Was that the beginning of your career?
Simba: “Susie’s Story” means a lot to me. It’s a record I wrote from the heart. I wrote that for people to see how their actions affect people outside of their initial intentions. I’ve seen too much happen to innocent people and I just wanted to tell people of the tragedy that takes places almost day to day in my town. Initially that’s a story I wrote about a mother who lost her daughter to violence. Things like that break my heart and I found a way to express how I was feeling in a song. Sad to say I feel like it’s a story I’ve seen too many times. It wasn’t the beginning of my career it was just one of my first emotional songs.
MJ: Although you are young in age, you are very family orientated and hold that above anything else in life. What kind of impact does your family and their support have on your career?
Simba: Family is one of the main reasons I do this. Ultimately I want to be the one that helps my family to advance in life, and that’s because they’re the ones that motivate me the most. My brothers, cousins, my mother, and dad tell me all the time that I’m good at what I do. I also have my sisters always supporting me as well whether it’s buying my mixtapes or coming to my shows, they always show love. It’ll mean so much to me when I can give my family the things they deserve. I even have my little nieces and nephews singing my songs every time they see me. My family really supports me and pushes me to be great and I just want to do that for them.
MJ: You have experienced a tremendous amount of success in a short period of time, yet you are not flashy or egotistical like many other young artists. What keeps Simba humble, and grounded in his tracks?
Simba: Through my music I want to inspire people. I want to show them that we all have the potential to be great. I want to stay connected to the people. Though I love fashion and I always try to look fly in my own way, at the end of the day I don’t want people to see jewels and expensive clothing. I want them to first see me for who I am. I’d rather take that money and give back to the people. I’m currently saving up to build a basketball gymnasium for the kids of my town.
MJ: For those that are not familiar with Simba, and shame on them, talk a little bit about your style. What separates you from other young up and coming artists?
Simba: I make music that isn’t bounded by a year. I feel like most young artists nowadays make music that’ll last a few months then it’s gone. My music is something that’ll be timeless. There’s a deep meaning behind every word when I craft a song. Originality and personality is what separates me from other artists. My music is positive, fun, and intellectual because I am that way. I integrate my life, ideas, and personal views into the music. It’s my story I don’t know someone that has lived the exact same life as me.
MJ: Let’s get to the music! What is hot right now and available for all your fans?
Simba: “Ohhmyygoodness” was the single that first got people looking at me as an artist. It’s a catchy, fun, and also very lyrical track. It has the classic rap feel. The single “Blue Faces” is one of my breakout hits. It’s a single that’s being played all over the world right now. It integrates my playful, aggressive, and love for the music. All of these can be found on iTunes, Tidal, Spotify, Google Play, Soundcloud, etc. In both these songs you can hear my seriousness and determination. It just shows how bad I really want and believe in myself as an artist. It is also something listeners can be motivated by.
MJ: Give us a little inside scoop on some forthcoming projects you are working on.
Simba: “This Is Only the Beginning” is a project I am creating that collectively shows all aspects of my personality and just a peek at my life and who I am as a person. I give a Reggae feel on songs such as “Good Love”, a playful feel on songs such as “Come Up”, I share my love life on songs such as “Fear of Love”, and family struggles on songs such as “Yeezy Taught Me”. My music is me! It’s real and exciting filled with love, pain, and joy. This project takes you through all the phases of my life, my pain, struggles, love troubles, and family issues. I wanted to give the people something they can relate to as well as something that will let them know we all share similar stories. But those stories are what push us or drive us to be great.
MJ: As we wrap up is there anything else you would like to share with the world of Hip Hop?
Simba: I just want to thank the people for all their support and their love for my music. Ultimately, because of them it pushes me to be better knowing that I have people checking for my music and constantly showing love and support!
Follow MJ @MJsHipHopConnex
Groundbreaking artists aren’t just born. They’re forged through relentless grind, unwavering vision, and a sharp business acumen. This deep dive into the industrious mindset of MGM Stanlo reveals the strategy behind making music crackle with energy and authenticity.
Building a Brand That Beats the Odds
Creating a presence in the music industry requires more than just raw talent; it demands a personal brand that resonates with your audience. MGM Stanlo understands the importance of setting himself apart with a distinct sound and persona. “I tell them, I’m not your ordinary Louisiana artist,” Stanlo asserts. He’s aware of his regional stereotype but spins the expectation on its head to show his unique approach to the music. Crafting an identity that defies the norm has helped him gain traction, while embracing social platforms and live interviews extends his reach even further.
*“It’s definitely will be a different take on it,” * Stanlo explains. His message to aspiring musicians is clear—challenge conventions and build a personal brand that’s versatile, memorable, and relatable.
From Passion to Paycheck: The Shift in Musicpreneurship
Embracing music as a business is pivotal for serious artists, and MGM Stanlo exemplifies this shift by discussing his growth from passion-driven performer to strategic entrepreneur. *“To actually receive income to take care of my family. ‘Cause, like, I know it’s fun, it’s a hobby. But the business side of it, like, now it’s time to start getting royalties.”* Music is a multifaceted business calling for artists to think about their craft in terms of investments and returns.
Stanlo’s revelation elevates the conversation around music and entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of learning the ins and outs of the music business to prosper. It’s clear: artists need to be shrewd business operators as much as they are creative contributors.
Consistency: The Beat That Doesn’t Stop
The theme of consistency is a drumbeat throughout MGM Stanlo’s journey, as he underscores the importance of maintaining momentum. *“Stay more consistent,” * he advises his younger self, alluding to lost time and opportunities. His current trajectory—rife with releases and planned music videos—is a testament to his newfound focus on persistence.
Stanlo’s candid reflection on his past underscores a broader truth within the industry: talent may open doors, but it’s grit and regular output that keep them wide open. For an artist like MGM Stanlo, going full throttle isn’t just a choice but a strategic imperative unique to the hyper-competitive world of hip-hop.
The Unseen Horizon: Diversifying the Portfolio
A true artist doesn’t merely keep up; they leap forward into new realms. Stanlo eyes avenues of expansion, like his dive into the world of fitness as an extension of his brand. *“I want to open an own gym to become a trainer and do that too,”* he shared, casting a vision where music and fitness intersect. His proactive stance suggests the more versatile your ventures, the more robust your career resilience.
Envisioning his future, Stanlo’s ideas go beyond hitting the gym; they encompass building a community around health, much like he has around his music. It’s a lesson in diversification that every aspiring artist should take to heart.
MGM Stanlo isn’t just another artist trying to make his mark; he’s an entrepreneur seeking to etch his name in stone. He has laid out the tools he has used and plans to use: personal branding that breaks grounds, savvy business practices, unyielding consistency, and an undeterred spirit to harness new ventures. His is a narrative that resonates with the grind synonymous with success in music and beyond—a story of a man who keeps asking, “What’s Tha location?” yet knows precisely where he’s going.
In the vibrant tapestry of the Independent Rap scene, Keal K stands out as a luminary in her own right. Her latest release, “Don’t Answer,” serves not only as a testament to her prowess but also as a clarion call to all who dare to listen.
With “Don’t Answer,” Keal K masterfully weaves together sharp, incisive lyrics with an irresistible beat, creating a sonic landscape that demands attention. It’s a track that resonates with the pulse of the streets, destined to become an anthem for the bold and the fearless.
Yet, “Don’t Answer” is just the latest chapter in Keal K’s musical journey. From the introspective depth of “Lost Ones” to the fiery energy of “Fuego,” her catalog is a testament to her versatility and artistry. Each track is a window into her world, inviting listeners to explore the depths of her soul.
What truly sets Keal K apart, however, is her unapologetic authenticity. Whether she’s spitting fire on stage or pouring her heart out in the studio, she remains true to herself, unafraid to bare her soul for all to see.
As “Don’t Answer” continues to reverberate through the streets, it’s clear that Keal K is poised for greatness. With her unwavering dedication and undeniable talent, she’s ready to leave an indelible mark on the rap game. So keep your ears to the ground and your eyes on the horizon – because Keal K is just getting started, and the best is yet to come.
Listen to Keal K’s fire tracks here:
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